2019 Swiftwater Invitational: Fun, Sun, and Smooth Operators

The season-opening 2019 Swiftwater Invitational, held in Cle Elum June 12-16, was a fantastic way to begin the Cascade Horse Shows season. The weather was warm and sunny, the horses and riders were ready and willing, and the fun factor was high.

Nobel, guided by professional owner/rider Lindsay Uyesugi-Lacey, was in fine form as the pair captured the top prize in the signature $5,000 Whittier Trust Welcome Prix, overcoming tough competition from second-place Jill Blunt and Udam. Shelly Kerron and MTM Uber outrode a strong field to win the $2,500 USHJA National Hunter Derby presented by Brick Road Farms, while amateur Rachael Davis took the number 2 spot aboard Luxury. The fast-paced 1.20m Voltaire Need for Speed was won by professional Katherine Wade-Easley and her mare Risky Business, edging out Georgia Dillon and Ibrahim.

Meanwhile, Lisa Shane, aboard Taylor Guaron’s Ffenomenal, were on point to win the $1,000 USHJA Green Hunter Challenge presented by Olson’s Tack Shop, while the dynamic duo of Lina Jernberg and Paige Wagter demonstrated mastery of the $750 Captain Morgan Pro-Am Challenge aboard Reminisce. The Rosé All Day Amateur Classic was stylishly won by none other than Allison Dady Smith and Dublin The Oddz, taking home a case of Swiftwater Cellars rosé wine for their efforts.

Many other fantastic riders and horses distinguished themselves during the show. Congratulations to them and to all of our champions and reserve champions. As always, we thank our sponsors for helping us make it all happen!